The four FA-50 combat aircraft of the Philippines arrived in Darwin, Australia for the Pitch Black 2024 (PB24) drills.
According to the Philippine Air Force (PAF), PB24 is a historic event as it is the first time that PAF has sent its aircraft overseas for an international exercise.
The 162 contingent, composed of highly trained personnel from various units, also arrived in Darwin.
Its first batch contingent arrived on July 7, 2024, followed by the main body on Wednesday, July 10, 2024 onboard a PAF C-130 Tactical Transport aircraft.
“Arriving with the main body are the four FA-50PH fighter jets that will participate in the PBK24,” PAF Spokesperson Colonel Maria Consuelo Castillo said.
The Philippine contingent were formally received by AIRCDRE Pete Robinson, PBK24 Exercise Director, upon their arrival at RAAF Base Darwin, Australia.
Deputy Wing Commander of the 5th Fighter Wing Colonel Randy Pascua served as the Contingent Commander for PB24.
PAF Commanding General Lieutenant General Stephen Parreno in the send-off of the contingent on Monday highlighted that the PAF’s participation in the exercise is a testament to the years of dedication invested in developing operational capabilities and strengthening international partnerships.
